Mesopotamian
Problems & Solutions
Objective: SWBAT identify & teach their partner the
ways Mesopotamian’s coped with problems.
Calisthenics:
1. Define drought
2. Define Irrigation
3. What kind of irrigation do we use today?
HOMEWORK: HAVE AN AMAZING WEEKEND! REST UP
AND ENJOY YOURSELF!
Mesopotamia was known as…
• The Fertile Crescent!
MESOPOTA
Problem #1: Lack of Protection
Problem:
• They Mesopotamians did not have any
mountains or natural barriers to protect them.
As a result people came to steal or invade
them. They lacked the trees and stone to
build strong barriers.
Solution – YAY!
• The Mesopotamians used brick walls to
surround villages. These walls were very thick
and had guard towers. The walls were also
surrounded by a wide open ditch. A Moat is a
water filled barrier to provide defense against
invader.
A moat…
Problem #2- Possibility of Drought!
Problem:
• Possibility of Drought
• Because the climate in Mesopotamia was arid,
farmers never knew if there would be a
drought. Also the farmers would be helpless If
the river did not flood.
Solution: Woo Hoo!
• The Mesopotamians created an irrigation
system. This was basically building small
canals from the river to water their crops.
This was important because they no longer
needed to rely on the flood every year.
Problem #3- Lack of Natural Resources
Problem
• The Mesopotamians lacked natural resources
such as stone and wood
Solution! Yipee!
• In order to build their homes they used reeds
and mud. They mixed mud and straw to create
bricks for stability. They hardened these
bricks by leaving them out in the sun. These
homes however were not strong and could
easily be damaged by bad weather
But they STILL lack Natural
Resources…AHHh!!!!
Solution, Phew!
• The Mesopotamians obtained wood, stone
and copper through trade with people
throughout Southwest Asia. In exchange for
these goods the Mesopotamians offered
grain, dates, and farm products. They also
traded for luxury items. These luxury items
were ivory, gold, ebony, and precious stones.
Partner Work!
• Fill out the chart on the back of your page
with your partner!